ongoing electrical issues

As far as I'm aware, they don't have any computers. The electrics can be a bit flaky, but nothing so bad as to render the car irrepairable.

Aidan

 

If by "computer", you mean the Dinoplex ignition module, you could replace it with something else since it only fires the spark and the advance is handled by the mechanics inside the distributor (this is what the BB/BBi guys do typically with MSD units -- so try a search on "MSD"), but you might also need to fabricate some type of new pick-up arrangement/mount too. If you can't find a used one, I'd love to hear if these UK guys can repair it for you:

http://www.the-ecu-doctor.co.uk

(As I've got a blown-up TR injection ECU that I'd like to get fixed).

Alternatively, eurospares shows it as available (and maybe they are doing something special with the guts because they show it as 118112/X rather than just 118112) -- but kind of pricey.

 

Search this forum for MSD and Dinoplex. There's plenty of info already available

http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=175693&highlight=Dinoplex+MSD&page=2

Al

 

MSD #6A (does not have rev limiter)

 

??
Not really a problem on a 400i !!!!!!!!!
If you are worried get the MSD with a limiter, #6AL both work great. Get it hidden and leave the original on the hood with the wiring, so it looks like it is still running of the old "buzz" box.

 

What about the triggering mechanism for using the MSD -- does it need to be changed to something else?

I can't recall the 512BB/BBi people saying that they needed to change to something else, but the stock arrangement is just a variable relutance coil -- is that a sufficient thing to trigger the MSD units?

Shawn -- You should also check with T. Rutlands -- seems like a nice "undetectable" improved replacement (found this while trying to see what the BB/BBi guys use for a triggering mechanism with the MSD units -- which I still like to hear about from the BB/BBi guys):

http://www.permatune.com/ignition-Ferrari-aec-103b.html

 

The factory dist. "triggers" the MSD fine.

 

Perma tune will rebuild it for you for around a grand.

 

There is no computer. If your mechanic has found one please post photos!

Al

 

Thanks for confirming that Fritz -- and I probably could've assumed that it did; otherwise, we would've had a lot more discussion about it here

 

Isn't that the function of the brain? Have noticed that most seem to have the add'l small box.

Have these things always buzzed since day 1 or is it a warning of things to come?

 

i.e., blank-off plate instead of limiter....this explains it.

http://www.permatune.com/AEC104BRL.html

 

when it is as simple as using this...http://www.permatune.com/pt104b.html

 

My 1980 400i #28903 has had an MSD 6A for 10 or 12 years now..aside from the very unsanitary looking installation by the previous owner in Dallas..it has funtioned flawlessly..and for under $200 smackers..why would even consider anyting else..it is Bulletproof...hope this is of some value..Jacques...get the red MSD Blaster 2 coil also... they are made for each other..hope this helps..Jacques.

 

for how much $$?

I used the MSD 6 Offroad 6470. The difference between the Offroad and other MSD 6 are:
1. it's black (you can accomplish the same with a spray can).
2. It's water proof and shock proof.
Both were positives in my case. The box is hidden behind the grill next to the radiator (for those familiar with the 400i it's just below and forward of the Dinoplex). Black is good because it is almost impossible to see and since this is an area exposed to the elements the water proofing is good too.

The Dinoplex is unmolested in it's original position connected to it's original harness. It just no longer makes those weird noises!

The improvement was huge.

MSD 6 Offroad info => http://www.msdignition.com/ignition_8_6470.htm
Installation instructions http://www.msdignition.com/pdf/6470_frm22699.pdf

Al

 

Funny you should mention that, tried to find out that very same thing but none of the 10 US suppliers seem to list that or the variety of Permatune products on their sites. In some instances, that throws a flag.

 

Hi...

I too am looking to do this MSD 6A mod to my '83 400i. I'm on my second dinoplex, and I just don't trust these things for long trips since the car STOPS when they break (found that out!).

A question:

The 6A specs say that it will work for a 4, 6 or 8 cyl. engine. How did you guys make it work? I'm ASSUMING that you set it up for a 6 cyl. and it "just works," but I'd like to confirm this.

Any other set up tips? Any tachometer problems afterwards?

Thanks!

Gerry

 

I was told by MSD that since there is only one distributor ..only one MSD is needed...2 distributors..2 needed..makes sense to me since the single dizzy has only one connection for both banks..whereas the twin dizzy set-up has one connection for each bank..thus the need for 2 MSD units..IT WORKS...so plug it in and drive it..I'll bet that this thread lasts until at least next June..(LOL)..hope this is of some value..Jacques

 

Thanks, Jacques, but I know that only one unit is needed. My question is which setting is the unit on? According to the spec sheet, the 6A will work for 4, 6, and 8 cylinder engines, depending on if a jumper wire(s) is(are) snipped or not. I can figure this out by trial and error, but would rather have an answer from someone who's done this mod before. That way, I won't have to have to possibly repair a jumper I snipped in error.

Thanks,

Gerry

 

I called MSD Tech. support and asked what I should use on my 12 cylinder 400I and they said "6A" So I brought one for $180.00, follwed the instructions, and in one hour had it installed in the same place on the hood. I took the stickers off and I think I will paint it black. I have put over 9,000 miles on it in this car and many more on one in another car. I have not heard of them failing and feel more comfortable than with the old M. M. unit. It is just a good after market C. D. box nothing more and nothing less.

 

I'm curious if the second box is OEM/NOS or a Permatune rebuild.

 

First buzz box (that failed) was original to the car. The second unit was NOS, and originally a spare for a BB LM race car (without the rev limiter, obviously).

Gerry

 

Well, for the record, I'm on my 2nd one...1st one replaced @ 12k mi., 2nd one has 14k mi. & still buzzin' strong.